Making a block quote in Google Docs is a straightforward process. A block quote is used to highlight a longer passage of text (usually 40 words or more) in your document, typically with a different format to set it apart from the rest of the text. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to create a block quote in Google Docs:
Method 1: Manual Formatting
1. Select the Text:
- Highlight the text you want to turn into a block quote.
- The text can be a direct quote from a source or any passage that you want to emphasize.
2. Indent the Text:
- Once the text is selected, go to the toolbar at the top of the Google Docs window.
- In the toolbar, click on the Increase Indent button (it looks like a blue arrow pointing right).
- Alternatively, you can use the Tab key on your keyboard to indent the selected text.
The indentation will move the quote away from the left margin, which is a key feature of block quotes.
3. Adjust the Formatting (Optional):
- Font Style and Size: If you want to further differentiate the block quote, you can adjust the font, size, or style. For instance, some academic or formal writing guidelines may recommend italicizing or bolding block quotes, although this is less common.
- Line Spacing: Block quotes often benefit from having a little extra spacing. You can adjust the line spacing to “1.5” or “Double” to create more white space around the quote. To adjust line spacing:
- Go to the Format menu at the top.
- Select Line spacing and choose your desired spacing (e.g., 1.5 or Double).
- Quotation Marks: Block quotes typically do not require quotation marks, as the formatting (indentation and spacing) indicates that it is a quote.
4. Final Result:
- Your block quote should now be formatted with an indentation and distinct visual separation from the rest of the text. It will appear as a paragraph that is indented from the left margin, typically without quotation marks.
Method 2: Using Google Docs’ Built-In Styles (For MLA or APA Formatting)
If you are following a specific citation style (like MLA or APA), Google Docs offers pre-set styles that might make creating a block quote easier.
1. Select the Text:
- Highlight the text you want to convert into a block quote.
2. Format Using the “Normal Text” Style:
- While this method doesn’t automatically indent the quote, you can modify the style to make a clean, consistent block quote.
- Go to Styles (the dropdown at the top left where it says “Normal text”).
- Choose Heading 1 or another heading style. After this, you can adjust the formatting.
Note that, depending on your citation style (MLA, APA), the standard block quote formatting is typically 1-inch indent from the left margin.
3. Adjust Spacing and Indentation:
- As with Method 1, use the Increase Indent button or the Tab key to adjust the left margin, and adjust line spacing to suit your needs.
Method 3: Using Google Docs’ Add-ons or Tools
If you frequently use block quotes, you may find add-ons that make this process more efficient.
1. Find Add-Ons:
- Click on Add-ons in the top menu, and select Get add-ons.
- Search for citation management tools or formatting tools like EasyBib or Paperpile that offer citation and block-quote formatting features.
2. Use the Add-On:
- Install your preferred add-on and follow its instructions for inserting block quotes.
General Formatting Guidelines for Block Quotes
- Length: Block quotes are typically used for longer passages (usually 40 words or more).
- Quotation Marks: You typically do not use quotation marks around block quotes, as the indentation already sets them apart.
- Citation Styles:
- MLA: The block quote is indented one inch from the left margin, and the entire block quote is double-spaced.
- APA: The block quote is indented one-half inch from the left margin, and it is double-spaced.
- Punctuation: The punctuation from the source should remain intact. End punctuation goes before the citation in the case of MLA and after the citation for APA.
Conclusion:
Creating a block quote in Google Docs can be done quickly by selecting the desired text, applying indentation, and adjusting line spacing. For more specific formatting, like using MLA or APA style, it’s essential to use the right amount of indentation and spacing. Block quotes are useful for quoting longer passages, and the indentation provides a clear visual distinction from the rest of the text.